Cartridge with a wheel for sealing the opening

ABSTRACT

A dispensing mechanism is adapted to eject a test sensor from a cartridge opening formed in a cartridge containing test sensors. The dispensing mechanism comprises a gear rack, a gear, and a wheel. The gear rack includes a first portion and a second portion located generally parallel to one another. The second portion of the gear rack includes a first plurality of teeth. The gear includes a second plurality of teeth that are adapted to be engaged by the first plurality of teeth upon movement of the gear rack. The wheel is operatively engaged by the gear and is adapted to dispense the test sensor from the cartridge opening and to seal the cartridge opening. The movement of the gear rack in a first direction causes the gear to rotate causing the wheel to rotate. The rotation of the wheel dispenses the test sensor through the cartridge opening.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.11/885,911 filed Sep. 7, 2007, which is a U.S. national stage ofInternational Application No. PCT/US2006/010310, filed on Mar. 22, 2006,which claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Application No.60/663,781, filed on Mar. 22, 2005, each of which is hereby incorporatedby reference herein in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to test-sensor dispensingdevices and, more particularly, to a test-sensor cartridge having anintegrated sealing and dispensing wheel.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Test sensors (e.g., biosensors) containing reagents are often used inassays for determining the analyte concentration in a fluid sample. Thequantitative determination of analytes in body fluids is of greatimportance in the diagnoses and maintenance of certain physiologicalabnormalities. For example, lactate, cholesterol, and bilirubin shouldbe monitored in certain individuals. In particular, determining glucosein body fluids is important to diabetic individuals who must frequentlycheck the glucose level in their body fluids to regulate the glucoseintake in their diets. Each test requires that a new test sensor beused, and thus, a number of test sensors may be used in a single day.Cartridges that contain a number of test sensors are used to allow usersto carry multiple sensors around within a single object. The cartridgemay utilize a drum or a disk to store the test sensors individually, orthe cartridge may contain a plurality of stacked sensors. Thesecartridges may then be incorporated directly into a meter.

The reagents used to assist with the determination of the analyteconcentration are typically sensitive to water and deteriorate ifexposed for a period of time. Desiccants are utilized to minimize theexposure of the reactants to water and water vapor. To maintain thedesiccant over time, the desiccant must be sealed off from the externalatmosphere. In a drum or a disk cartridge, the test sensors are storedin individual compartments and both a sensor and a desiccant are sealedin the compartment. However, these types of cartridges typically resultin low space efficiency and a higher cost for sealing each of theplurality of individual compartments.

In a cartridge containing stacked sensors, a separate desiccationchamber is provided that contains a desiccant for desiccating the entirecartridge. To maintain the desiccant, each of the openings to thecartridge is generally sealed. However, for a test sensor to bedispensed, at least one of the seals must be opened to allow a testsensor to exit the cartridge. In cartridges where foil is used to sealthe openings, once the first test sensor has been dispensed, it istypical for the cartridge to remain exposed. In other stacked-sensorcartridges, the slot from which the test sensor is ejected isresealable, but at least a second opening is required through thecartridge to allow an ejection mechanism to eject the test sensor. Thissecond opening may increase the potential for exposure of both thereagents and the desiccant to the external environment.

Thus, there exists a need for an improved test-sensor cartridge forefficiently storing and maintaining test sensors.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to one embodiment of the present invention a dispensingmechanism for ejecting a test sensor from a cartridge opening formed ina cartridge containing a plurality of test sensors is disclosed. Thedispensing mechanism comprises a gear rack, a gear, and a wheel. Thegear rack includes a first portion and a second portion locatedgenerally parallel to one another. The second portion of the gear rackincludes a first plurality of teeth. The gear includes a secondplurality of teeth that is adapted to be engaged by the first pluralityof teeth upon movement of the gear rack. The wheel is operativelyengaged by the gear and is adapted to dispense the test sensor from thecartridge opening and seal the cartridge opening. The movement of thegear rack in a first direction causes the gear to rotate causing thewheel to rotate. The rotation of the wheel dispenses the test sensorthrough the cartridge opening.

According to another embodiment of the present invention, the gear rackof the above-disclosed dispensing mechanism includes a plurality offirst portions and a plurality of second portions.

According to yet another embodiment of the present invention a cartridgeis disclosed. The cartridge comprises a plurality of walls, a dispensingmechanism, a retention plate, and a spring mechanism. The plurality ofwalls forms at least one cavity therein. The cavity is adapted tocontain a plurality of test sensors. The plurality of test sensors isadapted to assist in the determination of a concentration of an analytein a fluid sample. At least one of the plurality of walls has an openingadapted to allow a test sensor to be dispensed therefrom. The dispensingmechanism is adapted to dispense a test sensor through the opening. Thedispensing mechanism includes (i) a gear rack including a first portionand a second portion located generally parallel to one another, thefirst portion of the gear rack including a first plurality of teeth,(ii) a gear including a second plurality of teeth, the second pluralityof teeth being adapted to be engaged by the first plurality of teethupon movement of the gear rack, and (iii) a wheel operatively engaged bythe gear, the wheel being adapted to dispense the test sensor from theopening and to seal the opening. The retention plate is located in theat least one cavity and is adapted to engage at least one of theplurality of test sensors. The spring mechanism is adapted to engage theretention plate and exert a force on the retention place in thedirection of the wheel. The spring mechanism and the retention plateforce at least one of the test sensors into contact with a portion ofthe wheel of the dispensing mechanism.

According to still another embodiment of the present invention, the gearrack included in the dispensing mechanism of the above-describedcartridge includes a plurality of first portions and a plurality ofsecond portions.

The above summary of the present invention is not intended to representeach embodiment, or every aspect, of the present invention. Additionalfeatures and benefits of the present invention are apparent from thedetailed description and figures set forth below.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a cartridge adapted to contain anddispense a plurality of test sensors, according to one embodiment of thepresent invention.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a wheel and portion of the cartridge ofFIG. 1.

FIG. 3 a is a side view of the wheel of FIG. 2 and a gear in a restingposition.

FIG. 3 b is a side view of the wheel and the gear of FIG. 3 a in adispensing position.

FIG. 4 a is a side view of the wheel and gear of FIG. 3 a along with agear rack, where the gear rack is located in a resting position.

FIG. 4 b is a side view of the wheel, gear, and gear rack of FIG. 4 a,where the gear rack is located in a dispensing position.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the cartridge of FIG. 1 removablyinserted into a cartridge casing, according to one embodiment of thepresent invention.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a cartridge adapted to contain anddispense a plurality of test sensors, according to another embodiment ofthe present invention.

FIG. 7 is a side view of a cartridge adapted to contain and dispense aplurality of test sensors, according to yet another embodiment of thepresent invention.

FIG. 8 is a perspective side view of a cartridge adapted to contain aplurality of test sensors, according to still another embodiment of thepresent invention.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a cartridge adapted to contain anddispense a plurality of test sensors, according to one embodiment of thepresent invention

DESCRIPTION OF ILLUSTRATED EMBODIMENTS

The present invention is directed to a test-sensor cartridge having anintegrated sealing and dispensing wheel. The cartridge may be used tostore a plurality of test sensors in a desiccated state therein. Adispensed test sensor, in conjunction with a meter or instrument, may beused to determine concentrations of at least one analyte in a fluidsample applied to the test sensor. Analytes that may be measuredutilizing test sensors include glucose, lipid profiles (e.g.,cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL and HDL), microalbumin, hemoglobin A1C,fructose, lactate, bilirubin, or prothrombin. The present invention isnot limited, however, to these specific analytes and it is contemplatedthat other analyte concentrations may be determined. The analytes may bein, for example, a whole blood sample, a blood serum sample, a bloodplasma sample, other body fluids like ISF (interstitial fluid) andurine, or other (non-body) fluid samples. As used within thisapplication, the term “concentration” refers to an analyteconcentration, activity (e.g., enzymes and electrolytes), titers (e.g.,antibodies), or any other measure concentration used to measure thedesired analyte.

Turning now to the drawings and initially to FIG. 1, a test-sensorcartridge 10 is illustrated, according to one embodiment of the presentinvention. The cartridge 10 includes a plurality of walls 12 a-d thatforms a central cavity 14 and a desiccant cavity 16. A divide 18partially separates the central cavity 14 from the desiccant cavity 16.The desiccant cavity 16 is adapted to contain a desiccant while thecentral cavity 14 is adapted to contain a plurality of test sensors 20therein. The divide 18 is narrower than the walls 12 a-d to allow thecavities 14,16 to be in communication with one another. The desiccantcavity 16 is in communication with the central cavity 14 to allow thedesiccant to desiccate the central cavity 14.

The central cavity 14 contains a retention plate 22 that is adapted toengage a test sensor 20. A spring mechanism 23 is located between theretention plate 22 and the wall 12 c so as to cause the retention plate22 to engage the test sensors 20 and bring them proximate to theinterior surface (not shown) of the wall 12 a. The spring mechanism 23may be any type of spring, multiple spring, or other device capable ofexerting a sufficient force onto the retention plate 22. For example, asillustrated in FIG. 1, a plurality of springs 24 a,b are contained inthe central cavity 14 and engage both the retention plate 22 and thewall 12 c. The springs 24 a,b may be attached to the retention plate 22and the wall 12 c. Alternatively, a plurality of posts 26 a,b may extendfrom each surface into a central channel of the springs 24 a,b, asillustrated in FIG. 1. The posts 26 a-b extend from the wall 12 c whilea second set of posts (not shown) extend from the retention plate 22,opposite the posts 26 a,b. The springs 24 a,b exert a force on theretention plate 22 in the direction of the wall 12 a. This force causesthe retention plate 22 to engage the test sensors 20 and bring themproximate to the interior surface (not shown) of the wall 12 a.

Referring also to FIG. 2, an opening 28 is formed in the walls 12 a and12 b. The opening 28 is adapted to allow a portion of the dispensingmechanism 29 to be partially inserted therein. As illustrated in FIG. 2,a wheel 30 is provided within the dispensing mechanism 29. The wheel 30is adapted to be partially inserted into the opening 28 and to seal theopening 28 from the external environment when the wheel 30 is in itsresting position. The wheel 30 is adapted to rotate within the opening28 as the dispensing mechanism 29 moves from a resting position (FIG. 4a) to a dispensing position (FIG. 4 b). The wall 12 a is provided with acurved, recessed portion 32 while a pair of extensions 34 a,b is eachprovided with a curved ledge 33. The curvature of both the recessedportion 32 and the curved ledges 33 is adapted to match the curvature ofthe wheel 30 and allows a greater surface area for the wheel 30 tocontact for creating the seal. The wall 12 b is provided with a similarcurved, recessed portion (not shown) as well.

The pair of extensions 34 a,b extends from the exterior surface of thewall 12 a. The extensions 34 a,b each has an aperture 36 a,b,respectively, formed therein. A pin 38 extends from the wheel 30 and isadapted to insert through the aperture 36 b in the extension 34 b. Asecond pin (not shown) extends from the opposite side of the wheel 30and is adapted to insert through the aperture 36 a in the extension 34a. The pin 38 is typically longer than the thickness of the aperture 36and extends from the extension 34 b once the pin 38 has been insertedtherethrough. The apertures 36 a,b are generally circular at the endsand have a flat extension located between the circular ends. As will beexplained, the flat extensions allow the wheel 30 to be lifted slightlyfrom the cartridge 10 to allow a test sensor 20 to be dispensed. Thegenerally circular ends allow the pins to rotate within the apertures 36a,b, as will be discussed below.

The pin 38 is adapted to engage a gear 40, as best seen in FIG. 1. Thus,when the gear 40 is rotated, the pin 38 and wheel 30 rotate as well. Thedispensing mechanism 29 further comprises a gear rack 42 that is adaptedto engage and drive the gear 40. The gear rack 42 comprises a firstportion 44 and a second portion 46 located generally parallel to oneanother. The second portion 46 contains a plurality of teeth that isadapted to mate with the plurality of teeth located on the gear 40. Thegear rack 42 is adapted to move from a resting position to a dispensingposition and back. As the gear rack 42 moves from the resting positionto the dispense position, the teeth of the gear rack 42 and gear 40engage each other, causing the gear 40 to rotate in a first direction,as illustrated by Arrow C (FIG. 3 b). As the gear rack 42 returns to theresting position, the gear 40 is rotated in a second direction, oppositethe first. As illustrated in FIG. 1, the first portion 44 of the gearrack 42 includes a slider 48 that extends from the first portion 44. Theslider 48 is adapted to allow a test subject to move the gear rack 42from the resting position to the dispensing position. The wheel 30, gear40, gear rack 42, and slider 48 of the dispensing mechanism 29 areadapted to dispense a test sensor 20 from the cartridge 10, as will beexplained in more detail below with respect to FIGS. 4 a-b.

Referring also to FIGS. 3 a-b, a portion of the dispensing mechanism 29of FIG. 1 is shown in close up. As illustrated, the gear 40 is in theresting position between the first portion 44 and the second portion 46of the gear rack 42. In this position, the pin 38 extending into (and insome embodiments through) the gear 40 is located in a portion of theaperture 36 b nearest the cartridge 10. The gear 40 is placed andmaintained in this position by an acclivity 50 on the first portion 44of the gear rack 42. A matching declivity 52 is provided on the secondportion 46 of the gear rack 42 having the same slope as the acclivity50. The declivity 52 directs the gear away from the cartridge 10 (ArrowB) as the gear rack 42 is moved in the direction of Arrow A. Similarly,the acclivity 50 directs the gear 40 in the direction of the cartridge10 as the gear rack 42 is moved in the opposite direction as Arrow A. Asthe gear 40 moves towards the cartridge 10, the pin 38 moves towards thecartridge 10 as well, and thus, towards the portion of the aperture 36 bnearest the cartridge 10. A generally flat, sealing portion 56 islocated at the end of the acclivity 50 on the first portion 44 of thegear rack 42. The sealing portion 56 causes the wheel 30 to engage therecessed portions and curved ledges—sealing the opening 28. A stop (notshown) may be provided to prevent the gear rack 42 from being moved toofar and disengaging the gear 40.

As illustrated in FIG. 3 b, as the gear rack 42 is moved in thedirection of Arrow A the gear 40 is moved in the direction of ArrowB—away from the cartridge 10. This movement causes the pin 38 to moveinto a portion of the aperture 36 b furthest from the cartridge 10. Asthe gear rack 42 continues to move in the direction of Arrow A, theteeth of the gear 40 engage the teeth of the gear rack 42 and the gear40 begins to be rotationally driven in the direction of Arrow C.However, the gear 40 may remain static, or may rotate slightly, prior toengaging the teeth of the gear rack 42 due to the frictional coefficientbetween the gear 40 and the first and second portions 44, 46 of the gearrack 42.

The rotation of the gear 40—caused by moving the gear rack 42 in thedirection of Arrow A—results in the rotation of both the pin 38 and thewheel 30, accordingly. This rotation is utilized to dispense a testsensor 20 from the cartridge 10 as will now be more fully detailed withrespect to FIGS. 4 a-b. FIG. 4 a illustrates the gear rack 42, the gear40, and the wheel 30 of the dispensing mechanism 29 in the restingposition. In this position, the wheel 30 seals the opening 28. As thegear rack 42 is moved in the direction of Arrow A towards the dispensingposition (FIG. 4 b) the seal is broken as the gear 40 progresses up thedeclivity 52 of the second portion 46 of the gear rack 42.

As the gear 40 and wheel 30 are moved away from the cartridge 10, theretention plate 22 and springs 24 a,b force the test sensors 20 towardsthe wall 12 a, ensuring that one of the test sensors 20 (furthest fromthe retention plate 22) remains in contact with the wheel 30. Once thewheel 30 has been moved as far away from the cartridge 10 as allowed bythe apertures 34 a,b (i.e., when the gear 40 reaches the end of thedeclivity 52 nearest the teeth), a test sensor 20 is capable of beingdispensed through the opening 28 in the cartridge 10, as illustrated inFIG. 4 b.

Once the opening 28 has been unsealed by moving the gear 40 and wheel 30away from the cartridge 10, the teeth of the gear rack 42 engage thegear 40 causing both the gear 40 and the wheel 30 to rotate. Therotation of the wheel 30 causes the test sensor 20—which is forced intocontact with the wheel 30 by the retention plate 22 and the springs 24a,b—to move laterally in the direction of Arrow A. The test sensor 20begins to be dispensed through the opening 28 once the gear 40 begins torotate. Continuing to move the gear rack 42 in the direction of Arrow Afurther rotates the wheel 30, causing the test sensor 20 to be furtherdispensed from the cartridge 10. Once the gear 40 has proceeded to theend of the gear rack 42 or alternatively, once the gear rack 42 can nolonger be moved in the direction of Arrow A, the gear rack 42reciprocates back to the resting position. The reciprocation causes thewheel 30 to rotate in the opposite direction, securing the next-adjacenttest sensor 20 in its storage position prior to sealing the opening 28.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the wheel 30 is rotatedsufficiently to completely eject a single test sensor 20 from thecartridge 10. In this embodiment, once the test sensor 20 has beenejected, the gear rack 42 may not move further in the direction of ArrowA. In another embodiment of the present invention, the wheel 30 isrotated further than is necessary to completely eject a single testsensor 20 from the cartridge.

As should be apparent from the above discussion, after a first testsensor 20 has been dispensed from the cartridge 10, a void is createdbetween the wheel 30 and the next-adjacent test sensor 20. Thenext-adjacent test sensor 20 is then brought into contact with the wheel30 by the retention plate 22 and springs 24 a,b. In embodiments wherethe wheel 30 rotates further than is necessary to eject a single testsensor 20, the next-adjacent test sensor 20 may be slightly ejected bythe over-rotation. However, as the gear rack 42 moves back to theresting position, the wheel 30 is rotated in the opposite direction andthus, moves the test sensor 20 into its proper storage position. As thegear 40 reaches the acclivity 50 on the first portion 44 of the gearrack 42, both the gear 40 and the wheel 30 are moved towards thecartridge 10 in the opposite direction as Arrow B. Once the wheel 30reaches the sealing portion 56 of the first portion 44 of the gear rack42, the wheel 30 is forced into the opening 28 of the cartridge 10 andseals the cartridge 10 from the external environment. As the wheel 30 isforced into the opening 28, the remaining test sensors 20, as well asthe retention plate 22, are forced away from the wall 12 a and thesprings 24 a,b are further compressed.

As illustrated in FIG. 1 and FIGS. 3-4, the wheel 30 has a largerdiameter than the gear 40 that engages it. Because every rotation of thegear 40 rotates the wheel 30 a full rotation, the distance traveled atthe periphery of the wheel 30 is greater than the distance traveled bythe gear rack 42 (i.e., the gear driver). Thus, a test subject isrequired to move the slider 48 a shorter distance than would typicallybe required to dispense a test sensor. This is particularly beneficialto test subjects with smaller hands, such as children. By adjusting thesize of the wheel 30 to the gear 40, the distance the slider 48 isrequired to move to dispense a test sensor 20 may be varied.

The wheel 30 may be formed from any number of materials capable ofgenerating sufficient friction with the test sensor 20 to cause the testsensor to be dispensed from the cartridge 10. Additionally, it isdesirable, though not required, that the wheel 30 be slightly pliable soas to form a tight seal with the curved, recessed portions and ledges ofthe opening 28, while being able to exert sufficient force on the testsensors 20 to compress the spring mechanism 23 when the dispensingmechanism 29 is in the resting position. For example, the wheel 30 maybe made of rubber.

The gear 40 and gear rack 42 may be made of any sufficiently solidmaterial, such that rotation of the gear 40 is achieved when the gearrack 42 is moved from the resting position to the dispensing position.For example, the gear 40 and gear rack 42 may be formed from plastic ormetallic materials. It should also be noted that although the gear rack42 is shown as having teeth on the second portion 46, the teeth couldalternatively be provided on the first portion 44 of the gear rack 42.

Turning now to FIG. 5, according to one embodiment of the presentinvention, the dispensing mechanism 29 and cartridge 10 are adapted tobe removably inserted into a cartridge casing 60. The cartridge casing60 may be adapted to be inserted directly into a meter capable ofdetermining an analyte concentration by analyzing a fluid sample appliedto a dispensed test sensor 20. In this embodiment, the cartridge casing60 includes any necessary attachment mechanisms adapted to engage withan attachment mechanism on or within the meter. Alternatively, thecartridge casing 60 may be used to protect the cartridge 10 and thedispensing mechanism 29 where the device is being used as a stand-alone,test-sensor dispensing cartridge.

The cartridge casing 60 comprises a slider opening 62 and a test-sensoropening 64 formed on the exterior of the cartridge casing 60. The slideropening 62 is adapted to allow a slider 48 to extend therethrough and beaccessible to the test subject. The test-sensor opening 64 is adapted toallow a test sensor 20 to be ejected therefrom. Thus, when a test sensor20 is dispensed from the cartridge 10, the test sensor 20 is at leastpartially ejected through the test-sensor opening 64 and is able to begrasped by the test subject from outside the cartridge casing 60. Thecartridge casing 60 may include various electrical components foranalyzing an analyte concentration in a body fluid sample, as is wellknown in the art.

Turning now to FIG. 6, a test-sensor cartridge 110 is illustrated,according to another embodiment of the present invention. The variouscomponents illustrated in FIG. 6 interact and function in the samemanner as described above with respect to FIGS. 1-4 b. The cartridge 110includes a plurality of walls 112 a-d and a divide 118 forming adesiccant cavity 116 and a central cavity 114 that contains a pluralityof test sensors 120. The central cavity also includes a retention plate122 and spring mechanism 123 for biasing the retention plate 122 in thedirection of the wall 112 a. A dispensing mechanism 129 is provided nearan opening (not shown) that is sealed by a wheel 130 having posts 126that each extend through an aperture (not shown) formed in eachextension 134.

The spring mechanism 123 includes a torsion spring 158 located betweenthe retention plate 122 and the wall 112 c. The torsion spring 158causes the retention plate 122 to engage the test sensors 120 and bringthem proximate to the interior surface (not shown) of the wall 112 a.

The dispensing mechanism 129 includes the wheel 130 located between aplurality of gears 140 a,b with at least one gear 140 a,b being locatedon each side of the wheel 130. The gears 140 a,b engage the wheel 130via posts 126 extending from the wheel 130. The dispensing mechanism 129further includes a gear rack 142 adapted to engage each of the pluralityof gears 140 a,b. The gear rack 142 includes a plurality of firstportions 144 a,b and a plurality of second portions 146 a,b. Theplurality of second portions 146 a,b each contains a plurality of teeththat is adapted to mate with the plurality of teeth located on the gears140 a,b. The gear rack 142 is adapted to move from a resting position toa dispensing position and back. As the gear rack 142 moves from theresting position to the dispense position, the teeth of the gear rack142 and gears 140 a,b engage each other, causing the gears 140 a,b andwheel 130 to rotate. A slider 148 is attached to a support 154 from withthe first portions 144 a,b and second portions 146 a,b of the gear rack142 extend.

Utilizing a dual-drive type dispensing mechanism 129 further assistswith the sealing of the cartridge 110. For example, in a single-drivetype dispensing mechanism 29 (illustrated in FIGS. 1-5) when the gearrack 42 is moved to the resting position, the acclivity 50 and sealingportion 56 force the single gear 40 and thus, the wheel 30, towards thecartridge 10. However, because only one side of the wheel 30 is beingforced in the direction of the cartridge 10, the wheel 30 tends to tiltslightly in the direction of the gear 40. This creates a tighter seal onthe gear side of the wheel 30 than on the non-gear side. Though theacclivity 50 and sealing portion 56 are of sufficient slope toeffectively seal the cartridge 10, a dual-drive type dispensingmechanism 129 allows a pair of sealing portions 150, located on eachfirst portion 144 a,b of the gear rack 142 to assist in the sealing ofthe cartridge 110. Because both gears 140 a,b are being forced in thedirection of the cartridge 110, an even tighter seal is formed becausethe wheel 30 is evenly pressed towards the cartridge 110.

Turning now to FIGS. 7-8, a cartridge 210 adapted to contain anddispense a plurality of test sensors is illustrated, according to yetanother embodiment of the present invention. The cartridge 210 forms acentral cavity 214 adapted to contain a plurality of test sensors and adesiccant cavity 216 adapted to contain a desiccant. The central cavity214 and the desiccant cavity 216 are separated by a divide 218 having anair gap 270 located at least one end of the divide 218. The centralcavity 214 includes a retention plate 222 having a vent 272 locatedalong the divide 218. The desiccant in the desiccant cavity 216 isallowed to extract moisture from the air within the central cavity 214as the desiccant is in communication with the air within the centralcavity 214 via the air gap 270 and the vent 272.

A dispensing mechanism 229 is located within the cartridge 210 fordispensing the test sensors from the central cavity 214 via atest-sensor opening 264 formed in the cartridge 210. The dispensingmechanism 229 includes a wheel 230 adapted to individually engage andmove the test sensors. The wheel 230 is further adapted to seal anopening 228 when the dispensing mechanism 229 is in a resting position.A curved ledge 233 is provided to increase the surface area of the sealby the wheel 230. The wheel 230 includes a gear 240 or is operativelyconnected to the gear 240 via a pin 238. The dispensing mechanism 229further includes a slide rail 266 having a slot 268 formed therein. Thepin 238 is adapted to at least partially extend into (or through) theslot 268. The slot 268 formed in the slide rail 266 is adapted torestrict the vertical movement (i.e., toward and away from the opening228) of the wheel 230 while allowing the lateral movement (i.e., towardand away from the test-sensor opening 264) of the dispensing mechanism229. The pin 238 is further adapted to at least partially extend into(or through) a oval pocket 274. The oval pocket 274 is adapted torestrict the lateral movement of the wheel, while allowing the verticalmovement of the wheel.

The dispensing mechanism 229 includes a gear rack (not shown) formedalong an inner portion of the slide rail 266. The dispensing mechanism229 further includes a slider 248 that is externally-accessible from thecartridge 210 by a user.

Referring now to FIG. 9, a test-sensor indicator 312 for a cartridge 310adapted to contain and dispense a plurality of test sensors isillustrated, according to one embodiment of the present invention. Thetest-sensor indicator 312 includes one or more indicators 314 locatedproximate to a window 316. The window 316 allows a user to visiblyidentify the test sensors 22 within the cartridge 310. Once the testsensors 22 have been visibly identified, the user can reference the oneor more indicators 314 to determine the number, percentage, days, etc.of test strips remaining. In the illustrated example, the one or moreindicators 314 represent the number of test sensors 22 remaining withinthe cartridge 310.

Alternative Embodiment A

A dispensing mechanism for ejecting a test sensor from a cartridgeopening formed in a cartridge containing a plurality of test sensors,the dispensing mechanism comprising:

-   -   a gear rack including a first portion and a second portion        located generally parallel to one another, the second portion of        the gear rack including a first plurality of teeth;    -   a gear including a second plurality of teeth, the second        plurality of teeth being adapted to be engaged by the first        plurality of teeth upon movement of the gear rack; and    -   a wheel operatively engaged by the gear, the wheel being adapted        to dispense the test sensor from the cartridge opening and to        seal the cartridge opening,    -   wherein movement of the gear rack in a first direction causes        the gear to rotate causing the wheel to rotate, the rotation of        the wheel dispensing the test sensor through the cartridge        opening.

Alternative Embodiment B

The dispensing mechanism of Alternative Embodiment A wherein the firstportion of the gear rack includes an acclivity and the second portion ofthe gear rack includes a complimentary declivity.

Alternative Embodiment C

The dispensing mechanism of Alternative Embodiment B wherein a sealingportion extends from the acclivity, the sealing portion being adapted toplace the gear in a resting position.

Alternative Embodiment D

The dispensing mechanism of Alternative Embodiment C wherein the wheelseals the cartridge opening when the gear is placed in the restingposition.

Alternative Embodiment E

The dispensing mechanism of Alternative Embodiment B wherein thedeclivity causes the wheel to move away from the cartridge so as toexpose a portion of the cartridge opening, the test sensor beingdispensed through the exposed portion of the cartridge opening.

Alternative Embodiment F

The dispensing mechanism of Alternative Embodiment A wherein the wheelis made of rubber.

Alternative Embodiment G

The dispensing mechanism of Alternative Embodiment A wherein thediameter of the wheel is greater than the diameter of the gear.

Alternative Embodiment H

The dispensing mechanism of Alternative Embodiment G wherein the testsensor is moved further in the first direction than the gear rack whenthe gear rack is moved in the first direction.

Alternative Embodiment I

The dispensing mechanism of Alternative Embodiment A wherein themovement of the gear rack in the first direction moves the test sensorin the first direction.

Alternative Embodiment J

The dispensing mechanism of Alternative Embodiment A further comprisinga slider located on the gear rack, the slider being adapted to move thegear rack between a resting position and a dispensing position.

Alternative Embodiment K

A cartridge comprising:

-   -   a plurality of walls forming at least one cavity therein, the        cavity being adapted to contain a plurality of test sensors, the        plurality of test sensors being adapted to assist in the        determination of a concentration of an analyte in a fluid        sample, at least one of the plurality of walls having an opening        adapted to allow a test sensor to be dispensed therefrom;    -   a dispensing mechanism adapted to dispense a test sensor through        the opening, the dispensing mechanism including,        -   (i) a gear rack including a first portion and a second            portion located generally parallel to one another, the first            portion of the gear rack including a first plurality of            teeth,        -   (ii) a gear including a second plurality of teeth, the            second plurality of teeth being adapted to be engaged by the            first plurality of teeth upon movement of the gear rack, and        -   (iii) a wheel operatively engaged by the gear, the wheel            being adapted to dispense the test sensor from the opening            and to seal the opening;    -   a retention plate located in the at least one cavity, the        retention plate being adapted to engage at least one of the        plurality of test sensors; and    -   a spring mechanism adapted to engage the retention plate, the        spring mechanism exerting a force on the retention place in the        direction of the wheel,        wherein the spring mechanism and the retention plate force at        least one of the test sensors into contact with a portion of the        wheel of the dispensing mechanism.

Alternative Embodiment L

The cartridge of Alternative Embodiment K wherein the at least onecavity is two cavities separated by a divide, the two cavities being incommunication with each other, the first cavity containing the pluralityof test strips and the second cavity containing a desiccant.

Alternative Embodiment M

The cartridge of Alternative Embodiment K wherein the walls of thecartridge have only one opening formed therein.

Alternative Embodiment N

The cartridge of Alternative Embodiment K wherein the spring mechanismincludes a plurality of springs extending between one of the pluralityof walls and the retention plate.

Alternative Embodiment O

The cartridge of Alternative Embodiment K wherein the spring mechanismincludes a torsion spring located between one of the plurality of wallsand the retention plate.

Alternative Embodiment P

A dispensing mechanism for ejecting a test sensor from a cartridgeopening formed in a cartridge containing a plurality of test sensors,the dispensing mechanism comprising:

-   -   a plurality of gears, each of the plurality of gears including a        plurality of teeth;    -   a wheel operatively engaged by the plurality of gears, the wheel        being adapted to dispense the test sensor from the cartridge        opening and to seal the cartridge opening; and    -   a gear rack including a plurality of first portions and a        plurality of second portion located generally parallel to one        another, at least one of the plurality of first and second        portions being located on opposite sides of the wheel, the        plurality of second portions of the gear rack each including a        plurality of teeth, the plurality of teeth on the plurality of        second portions being adapted to engage the plurality of teeth        on the plurality of gears,    -   wherein movement of the gear rack in a first direction causes        the plurality of gears to rotate causing the wheel to rotate,        the rotation of the wheel dispensing the test sensor through the        cartridge opening.

Alternative Embodiment Q

The dispensing mechanism of Alternative Embodiment P wherein the firstportion of the gear rack includes an acclivity and the second portion ofthe gear rack includes a complimentary declivity.

Alternative Embodiment R

The dispensing mechanism of Alternative Embodiment Q wherein a sealingportion extends from the acclivity, the sealing portion being adapted toplace the gear in a resting position.

Alternative Embodiment S

The dispensing mechanism of Alternative Embodiment R wherein the wheelseals the cartridge opening when the gear is placed in the restingposition.

Alternative Embodiment T

The dispensing mechanism of Alternative Embodiment P wherein thediameter of the wheel is greater than the diameter of the gear.

Alternative Embodiment U

The dispensing mechanism of Alternative Embodiment T wherein the testsensor is moved further in the first direction than the gear rack whenthe gear rack is moved in the first direction.

Alternative Embodiment V

The dispensing mechanism of Alternative Embodiment P wherein gear rackincludes a support from which the plurality of first and second portionsextend.

Alternative Embodiment W

The dispensing mechanism of Alternative Embodiment V further comprisinga slider located on the support of the gear rack, the slider beingadapted to move the gear rack between a resting position and adispensing position.

Alternative Embodiment X

A cartridge comprising:

-   -   a plurality of walls forming at least one cavity therein, the        cavity being adapted to contain a plurality of test sensors, the        plurality of test sensors being adapted to assist in the        determination of a concentration of an analyte in a fluid        sample, at least one of the plurality of walls having an opening        adapted to allow a test sensor to be dispensed therefrom;    -   a dispensing mechanism adapted to dispense a test sensor through        the opening, the dispensing mechanism including,        -   (i) a plurality of gears, each of the plurality of gears            including a plurality of teeth,        -   (ii) a wheel operatively engaged by the plurality of gears,            the wheel being adapted to dispense the test sensor from the            cartridge opening and to seal the cartridge opening, and        -   (iii) a gear rack including a plurality of first portions            and a plurality of second portion located generally parallel            to one another, at least one of the plurality of first and            second portions being located on opposite sides of the            wheel, the plurality of second portions of the gear rack            each including a plurality of teeth, the plurality of teeth            on the plurality of second portions being adapted to engage            the plurality of teeth on the plurality of gears;    -   a retention plate located in the at least one cavity, the        retention plate being adapted to engage at least one of the        plurality of test sensors; and    -   a spring mechanism adapted to engage the retention plate, the        spring mechanism exerting a force on the retention place in the        direction of the wheel,    -   wherein the spring mechanism and the retention plate force at        least one of the test sensors into contact with a portion of the        wheel of the dispensing mechanism.

Alternative Embodiment Y

The cartridge of Alternative Embodiment X wherein the at least onecavity is two cavities separated by a divide, the two cavities being incommunication with each other, the first cavity containing the pluralityof test strips and the second cavity containing a desiccant.

Alternative Embodiment Z

The cartridge of Alternative Embodiment X wherein the walls of thecartridge have only one opening formed therein.

Alternative Embodiment AA

The cartridge of Alternative Embodiment X wherein the spring mechanismincludes a plurality of springs extending between one of the pluralityof walls and the retention plate.

Alternative Embodiment BB

The cartridge of Alternative Embodiment X wherein the spring mechanismincludes a torsion spring located between one of the plurality of wallsand the retention plate.

While the invention is susceptible to various modifications andalternative forms, specific embodiments and methods thereof have beenshown by way of example in the drawings and are described in detailherein. It should be understood, however, that it is not intended tolimit the invention to the particular forms or methods disclosed, but,to the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications,equivalents and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of theinvention as defined by the appended claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A cartridge comprising: a plurality of wallsforming at least one cavity therein, the cavity being adapted to containa plurality of test sensors, the plurality of test sensors being adaptedto assist in the determination of a concentration of an analyte in afluid sample, at least one of the plurality of walls forming an openingadapted to allow a test sensor to be dispensed therefrom; and adispensing mechanism adapted to dispense a test sensor through theopening, the dispensing mechanism including a wheel, the wheel sealingthe opening in a first position, the wheel being adapted to rotate fromthe first position to a second position to unseal the opening, the wheelbeing adapted to rotate from the second position to the first positionto seal the opening, an axis of symmetry of the wheel being modified ina vertical direction and a horizontal direction when the wheel is movedvia an inclined slope between the first position and the second positionto assist in unsealing the opening and dispensing the test sensor,wherein a portion of the wheel remains within the cartridge in the firstposition, and wherein a portion of the wheel remains within the openingin the second position during dispensing.
 2. The cartridge of claim 1further including a retention plate and a spring mechanism, theretention plate being located in the at least one cavity, the retentionplate being adapted to engage at least one of the plurality of testsensors, the spring mechanism adapted to engage the retention plate, thespring mechanism exerting a force on the retention plate in thedirection of the wheel, wherein the spring mechanism and the retentionplate force at least one of the test sensors into contact with a portionof the wheel of the dispensing mechanism.
 3. The cartridge of claim 2wherein the spring mechanism includes a plurality of springs extendingbetween one of the plurality of walls and the retention plate.
 4. Thecartridge of claim 2 wherein the spring mechanism includes a torsionspring located between one of the plurality of walls and the retentionplate.
 5. The cartridge of claim 1 wherein the wheel is operativelyengaged by a gear.
 6. The cartridge of claim 1 wherein the at least onecavity is two cavities separated by a divide, the two cavities being incommunication with each other, the first cavity containing the pluralityof test strips and the second cavity containing a desiccant.
 7. Thecartridge of claim 1 wherein the walls of the cartridge form only oneopening therein.
 8. The cartridge of claim 1 wherein the wheel has anouter surface and the wheel is adapted to dispense the test sensor byhaving the outer surface thereof contact one of the test sensors andassist in moving the test sensor in a generally horizontal directiontoward the opening for dispensing.
 9. The cartridge of claim 1 whereinthe wheel comprises rubber.
 10. A cartridge comprising: a plurality ofwalls forming at least one cavity therein, the cavity being adapted tocontain a plurality of test sensors, the plurality of test sensors beingadapted to assist in the determination of a concentration of an analytein a fluid sample, at least one of the plurality of walls forming anopening adapted to allow a test sensor to be dispensed therefrom; and adispensing mechanism adapted to dispense a test sensor through theopening, the dispensing mechanism including a wheel having an outersurface, the wheel sealing the opening in a first position, the wheelbeing adapted to rotate from the first position to a second position tounseal the opening, the wheel being adapted to rotate from the secondposition to the first position to seal the opening, the wheel beingadapted to dispense one of the plurality of the test sensors by havingthe outer surface thereof contact the test sensor and assist in movingthe test sensor in a generally horizontal direction toward the openingfor dispensing.
 11. The cartridge of claim 10 further including aretention plate and a spring mechanism, the retention plate beinglocated in the at least one cavity, the retention plate being adapted toengage at least one of the plurality of test sensors, the springmechanism adapted to engage the retention plate, the spring mechanismexerting a force on the retention plate in the direction of the wheel,wherein the spring mechanism and the retention plate force at least oneof the test sensors into contact with a portion of the wheel of thedispensing mechanism.
 12. The cartridge of claim 11 wherein the springmechanism includes a plurality of springs extending between one of theplurality of walls and the retention plate.
 13. The cartridge of claim11 wherein the spring mechanism includes a torsion spring locatedbetween one of the plurality of walls and the retention plate.
 14. Thecartridge of claim 10 wherein the wheel is operatively engaged by agear.
 15. The cartridge of claim 10 wherein the at least one cavity istwo cavities separated by a divide, the two cavities being incommunication with each other, the first cavity containing the pluralityof test strips and the second cavity containing a desiccant.
 16. Thecartridge of claim 10 wherein the walls of the cartridge form only oneopening therein.
 17. A method of dispensing a test sensor, the methodcomprising the acts of: providing a cartridge, the cartridge including aplurality of walls forming at least one cavity therein, the cavitycontaining a plurality of test sensors, the plurality of test sensorsbeing adapted to assist in the determination of a concentration of ananalyte in a fluid sample, at least one of the plurality of wallsforming an opening adapted to allow a test sensor to be dispensedtherefrom; providing a dispensing mechanism including a wheel, movingthe wheel from a position of sealing the opening, an axis of symmetry ofthe wheel being modified in a vertical direction and a horizontaldirection when the wheel is moved via an inclined slope from theposition of sealing the opening; and dispensing a test sensor from thecontainer through the opening after the wheel has been moved from theposition of sealing the opening, wherein a portion of the wheel remainswithin the cartridge in the position of sealing the opening, and whereina portion of the wheel remains within the opening in the position duringdispensing.
 18. A method of dispensing a test sensor, the methodcomprising the acts of: providing a cartridge, the cartridge including aplurality of walls forming at least one cavity therein, the cavitycontaining a plurality of test sensors, the plurality of test sensorsbeing adapted to assist in the determination of a concentration of ananalyte in a fluid sample, at least one of the plurality of wallsforming an opening adapted to allow a test sensor to be dispensedtherefrom; providing a dispensing mechanism including a wheel, movingthe wheel from a position of sealing the opening, an axis of symmetry ofthe wheel being modified when the wheel is moved from the position ofsealing the opening; dispensing a test sensor from the container throughthe opening after the wheel has been moved from the position of sealingthe opening, wherein dispensing of the test sensor includes the wheelhaving an outer surface, the outer surface of the wheel contacting thetest sensor and assisting in moving the test sensor through the opening.19. The method of claim 18 wherein the outer surface of the wheelcontacts the test sensor and assisting in moving the test sensor throughthe opening in a generally horizontal direction.
 20. The method of claim17 wherein the cartridge further includes a retention plate and a springmechanism, the retention plate being located in the at least one cavity,the retention plate being adapted to engage at least one of theplurality of test sensors, the spring mechanism adapted to engage theretention plate, the spring mechanism exerting a force on the retentionplate in the direction of the wheel, and wherein the spring mechanismand the retention plate force at least one of the test sensors intocontact with a portion of the wheel of the dispensing mechanism.
 21. Acartridge comprising: a plurality of walls forming at least one cavitytherein, the cavity being adapted to contain a plurality of testsensors, the plurality of test sensors being adapted to assist in thedetermination of a concentration of an analyte in a fluid sample, atleast one of the plurality of walls forming an opening adapted to allowa test sensor to be dispensed therefrom; and a dispensing mechanismadapted to dispense a test sensor through the opening, the dispensingmechanism including a wheel, the wheel sealing the opening in a firstposition, the wheel being adapted to rotate from the first position to asecond position to unseal the opening, the wheel being adapted to rotatefrom the second position to the first position to seal the opening, anaxis of symmetry of the wheel being modified when the wheel is moved viaan inclined slope between the first position and the second position toassist in unsealing the opening and dispensing the test sensor, whereina portion of the wheel remains within the cartridge in the firstposition, and wherein a portion of the wheel remains within the openingin the second position during dispensing.